#10: ECC Commissioner Jessica Grasso joins the inaugural ECC Podcast as she enters into her second year leading the league to dive into what is ahead in 2025-26. The conference will begin a new strategic planning process that will align with the DII strategic planning process. “We really want to make sure that we are focusing on those five areas that DII really lives by and goes by, that the ECC is also going to be in conjunction. So I think this is the right time to do it. The NCAA landscape is changing. It is sometimes a little bit not consistent, shall we say, so you have to be flexible and nimble. I think right now for us to identify how we can get better with this planning process is appropriate.” On the decision to partner with FloSports for its media rights: "We're just elevating ourselves. We're putting out a product that will have our membership meet those parameters that are becoming the acceptable viewership that wants to take part in it. And not only that, our student-athletes just want to be showcased better. They just want to be able to be seen at a better view, in a better light, and I think by joining with FloSports, we'll be able to provide that.” (link)
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#9: Lander raised over $197K through its partnership with Hour-A-Thon. (link) |
#8: Texas Permian Basin hit its $1M FY25 fundraising goal for the UTPB Champions Fund and now has its sights set on a $1.25M goal for FY26. AD Scott Larson: “The support from our donors and the community has been incredible. Reaching the $1 million goal shows the pride and commitment people have for UTPB Athletics. These funds make a tremendous difference for UTPB athletics, starting with attracting quality student-athletes and then helping them excel academically, compete at a high level and help them grow as leaders in the Permian Basin and beyond.” (link)
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#7: Wayne State (MI) President Kimberly Andrews Espy has resigned, per The Detroit News’ Sarah Atwood. The decision comes after reports last week that the Board of Governors was not satisfied with her leadership and planned to push her out. (link)
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#6: Southwestern Oklahoma State President Diana Lovell will return to her position next semester, as she takes extended personal time to be with family. Retired Northwestern Oklahoma State President Janet Cunningham will serve as Acting President. (link)
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#5: Check out Maryville’s new court at Moloney Arena. (link) |
#4: UNC Pembroke officially opened its new Outdoor Sports Complex last week that includes major upgrades for Baseball and Softball, plus a new campus recreation turf field. AD Dick Christy: “It is always a proud day when you can upgrade the amenities and resources for a student's experience to match the level of effort that they and their coaches put in on a daily basis. This has been a long-time coming and we are so excited to share it with our community.” (link)
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#3: Maryville hires Illinois Springfield Assoc. AD for Compliance Services Scottie Molar as Asst. AD for Compliance. (link)
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#2: Former Emporia State Women’s Soccer HC Bryan Sailer’s discrimination case against the university has been dismissed with prejudice. (link)
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#1: Colorado Mesa AD Joan McDermott will depart, effective immediately, stating: “At this time of my life, it's time I find a better balance between the work I love in college athletics, and spending time with kids and grandkids. I expect to continue pursuing my passion working in college athletics, but likely in a consulting or more part-time capacity that will allow me a better balance in my life.” Senior Vice President of Development/Foundation CEO Robin Brown will serve as Interim AD. (link)
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